Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the hundreds of volunteers at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, who are celebrating the milestone of logging 150,000 volunteer service hours in aiding the Refuge since 1982.

The volunteers of the Great Swamp, through their dedicated hard work, have made the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a vibrant source of pride and activity for the local community. Although the volunteer program was formally founded in 1982, volunteers have been helping preserve the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge since it was

formed by an Act of Congress in 1960. Over the years, volunteers have provided a variety of guest services and assistance with maintaining the 7,768 acres of the Great Swamp.

Upon arriving at the Great Swamp NWR, guests are welcomed by the lush gardens near the visitor center maintained by volunteers. From spring through fall, the volunteers staff the Wildlife Observation Center, where visitors are introduced to the Great Swamp and all of its trails, paths and ``must see'' locations. Volunteers also provide tours for schools and community organizations, which educate students and the surrounding residents about the Great Swamp and all of the wildlife and plants that make it so unique. As another part of their very important work in preserving the natural beauty of the Refuge, they join the effort in controlling invasive plants, which threaten to disrupt the Great Swamp's fragile ecosystem.

Outreach to local communities has always been a hallmark of the volunteers of the Great Swamp. They help build and display exhibits at libraries and off-refuge events. Through these displays they are able to educate the community about the Great Swamp and the value the Great Swamp represents to the environment of Morris County and New Jersey. They also spread the news about the Great Swamp by giving presentations to various community organizations. Volunteers assist in raising funds through planning of special events and ceremonies.

The hard work and dedication of the volunteers has provided $3.2 million in value to the Great Swamp and to the American people. Their work on behalf of the Great Swamp has allowed the Refuge to grow into the one-of-a-kind educational center that it is today. Even though the volunteers come from all walks of life and represent all ages, their love of the Great Swamp and nature has built a close bond between them. Many of the volunteers have even taken another step in their commitment and have joined the independent non-profit group dedicated to preserving the Great Swamp called the Friends of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The volunteers of the Great Swamp are truly the backbone of this New Jersey institution.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating all of the volunteers of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge for 150,000 hours of service to the great State of New Jersey and the United States.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 5325, and that I may include tabular material on the same.

Mr. Chairman, it is my honor to bring the fiscal year 2013 Energy and Water bill before the full House.

Before I begin my remarks, let me thank the full chairman, Mr. Rogers, as well as the ranking member, Mr. Dicks, for their support of a very open process. I would also like to thank my ranking member, Congressman Pete Visclosky, for his dedication to our joint mission and our close working relationship. The bill is stronger for his input and knowledge.

I would also like to thank the committee staff: Rob Blair, our clerk; Joe Levin; Loraine Heckenberg; Angie Giancarlo; Perry Yates; and Trevor Higgins. On the minority side, I would like to thank Taunja Berquam. I would also like to thank my personal staff, Nancy Fox and Katie Hazlett, and Mr. Visclosky's personal staff in the form of Joe DeVo.

Mr. Chairman, the Energy and Water Development appropriations bill supports programs critical to our Nation's security, safety, and economic competitiveness. Our recommendation prioritizes investments in our nuclear security enterprise, programs to address gasoline prices, and opportunities to advance American competitiveness, including the key role of the Army Corps of Engineers.

The bill for fiscal year 2013 totals $32.1 billion. Security funding is increased by $275 million over last year, while non-security funding is cut by $188 million.

Mr. Chairman, there are no earmarks in this legislation.

We also reclaim most unused funds from previous Congresses, so this bill actually cuts spending by $623 million below last year, forcing our agencies down to more appropriate sizes and to operate with less money. The only significant increases over last year's level are to nuclear security and to develop a true all-of-the-above energy strategy. We also provide more funding to the Corps, including $1 billion for Harvard Maintenance Trust Fund projects. The recommendation also fully funds Weapons Activities to ensure that the Secretary of Energy has the investments he needs to certify to the President that our nuclear stockpile is reliable.

We have also heard from the public frustration about ``stimulus fund'' investments into failed energy projects. This bill will remove the Energy Department back to its core responsibilities--to serve Americans by protecting their security and improving our energy independence. Our bill will help improve that independence by sustaining fossil and nuclear energy research development, the latter of which is leading to investments in new nuclear power plants and developing small modular reactors. And, unlike the President, we have always considered ``clean coal'' to be part of our national energy security.

At the same time, the Department of Energy's energy programs are cut by nearly $600 million, or 6 percent, by reducing programs which received the largesse of the largely failed so-called ``stimulus'' program. No funding is provided for the Solyndra-like loan guarantee programs in our bill.

All of our constituents are wrestling with how to pay for higher gasoline bills on limited budgets. This bill does not provide a quick fix, since there's little that the Department can do in its programs to immediately change oil supply and demand. However, the bill provides over $1.01 billion--$36 million above fiscal year 2012--to strengthen the Department of Energy's programs addressing the causes and impacts of higher gasoline prices down the road.

Within this, the recommendation funds a new program to promote shale oil recovery. If we could fully use this resource, our country's reserves could equal all global conventional reserves. This would make a major dent in oil prices and reduce our dependency on foreign oil.

Additionally, scientific research at the Department of Energy strengthens American competitiveness and enables true breakthroughs in the energy sector, and the bill preserves and protects it. The bill also protects public safety and keeps America literally open for business by providing $4.8 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers, $83 million above the request and $188 million below fiscal year 2012.

As in fiscal year 2012, our bill maintains the constitutional role of Congress in the appropriations process by ensuring that all worthy Corps of Engineers projects have a chance to compete for funding. The bill provides $324 million in addition to the President's requested projects, investing in navigation and flood control--activities most critical to public safety, jobs, and our economy.

Finally, a word about Yucca Mountain. The recommendation includes $25 million for Yucca Mountain with language prohibiting activity which keeps that facility from being usable in the future. The recommendation also denies funding for Blue Ribbon Commission activities, which need legislative authorization. Research and development activities to support Yucca Mountain are permitted. This will ensure that we keep Congress in the driver's seat for nuclear waste policy.

Mr. Chairman, this is a tight, fiscally conservative bill which funds critical national security, jobs, and infrastructure priorities while helping to fight future gasoline price increases. This bill deserves our Members' support, and I look forward to an open and full discussion and open process.

I reserve the balance of my time.

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Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Kentucky, Chairman Rogers.

Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to a valuable and knowledgeable member of our Subcommittee on Energy and Water, the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Womack).

Mr. Chairman, I'd be glad to engage in a colloquy with the gentlelady from California (Ms. Matsui).

Mr. Chairman, I, too, commend the gentlewoman's efforts to bring this matter to our attention. She has described well the sometimes conflicting concerns regarding vegetation and levees. I look forward to continuing to work with her and our other colleagues interested in this issue to ensure that the Corps gives serious consideration to their concerns and perhaps conducts additional research if it is deemed advisable prior to finalizing its levee vegetation policy.

Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentlewoman for her concern about sustaining the mission of science, fusion energy, research, and other activities at the National Ignition Facility. I know she's a strong advocate for science, and I commend her for her attention and support.

While this facility's primary purpose is to support sustainment of our nuclear weapons stockpile, it was also envisioned to be a user facility. Basic science and fusion energy will always remain an important part of the NIF's mission.

I thank her for her advocacy and work on behalf of the NIF.

I continue to reserve the balance of my time, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman, Mr. Thompson, for bringing this issue to our committee's attention. We take seriously our obligation of ensuring that Reclamation is efficiently using its appropriated funds to maximize the taxpayer return on investment, and I would be happy to work with the gentleman to continue congressional oversight of the actions at Lake Berryessa specifically.

Mr. Chairman, I am very pleased to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Boustany).

Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Harris).

Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Maryland for yielding and for the additional and very valuable extra background information regarding his subcommittee's very important and critical work on shale oil.

As the gentleman noted, our bill's all-of-the-above energy strategy to address high gasoline prices includes $25 million for research to reduce barriers to the safe environmental and economic development of the United States' vast, untapped oil shale resources.

I strongly agree with the gentleman that this funding is intended for investments in technology and scientific research, not regulatory action, which can ultimately enable economic and environmentally responsible shale oil production. The gentleman has identified some very important, specific research areas in his remarks, and we will continue to consider these and other lines of work as we look to further shape the program. I look forward to continued discussion with my colleague as we move forward in that process, and I thank him for his work on this very critical issue.

Let me associate my remarks with the ranking member's. We thank all of those who have come forward. We look forward to a vigorous couple of days ahead as we consider the rest of the energy and water bill. I thank the gentleman and all those who have participated.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, I move that the Committee do now rise.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in the Borough of Mountain Lakes, Morris County, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2012.

The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, originally called the Boonton Area YMCA, was first formed in the Boonton area in 1865 and occupied several sites throughout the area. However, it was not until 1912 that it filed its official YMCA charter. In 1960, it moved to Cherry Hill Road in Parsippany. Since it was then serving seven different communities, it decided to adopt the name Lakeland Hills YMCA. In 1968, the Lakeland Hills YMCA was able to move to its final location in Mountain Lakes on Fanny Road. To cover the costs of both the move and building of the facility, the Trustees added a Building Fund pledge to the membership, and with the support of its members, the new YMCA was able to open its doors in 1972.

The early years as the combined YMCA, saw the addition of a children's day care, aerobics program, and senior program. The aquatic and physical education programs were expanded and the YMCA sponsored an ``Adult Club'' which offered programs and trips.

Unfortunately, the early years for the Y brought financial difficulties, even as membership continued to grow. These financial difficulties were alleviated by a ``miracle'' donation from Ms. Esther Dutton who was so impressed by the staff and members that she remembered the Y in her will. In 1978, with this new funding, plans to double the size of the center were undertaken to include a gymnasium, racquetball courts, and a running track. The Y has since undergone numerous renovations, including those to add additional childcare classrooms.

Moreover, the Y announced a scholarship for less fortunate children to attend childcare and day camp in 2007. That same year the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA announced the creation of a Kid's Cardio Arcade and began a Kid's Wellness Month program. They also joined the YMCA's national programs of Healthy Kids Day and Activate America.

Today the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA boasts 11,000 members and serves ten different communities in Morris County. It seeks to build strong families, and in doing so, build strong communities. The YMCA currently offers a wide range of programs including a childhood daycare center, educational programs for children, a leadership training program for teens, a series of family programs, and a plethora of fitness options. It also runs an annual Give a Kid the Y campaign to allow underprivileged children to have the ability to participate in programs at the Y. The YMCA has also been proud to host a number of Special Olympics meets over its existence. Its presence in Morris County continues to enrich the lives of its members and the community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA as it celebrates its 100th Anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children of Morris and Sussex Counties as they celebrate their 25th anniversary.

Court Appointed Special Advocates, CASA, was created in 1977 to address the issue of abused and neglected children within the court system. The founder, David Soukup, a Seattle Superior Court Judge, raised concerns over making decisions on behalf of abused and neglected children without enough information. To gain more knowledge he called for volunteers to investigate the cases, make recommendations and speak on behalf of the child about what would be in his or her best interest.

It quickly became clear that CASA volunteers provided the abused or neglected children a constant adult presence that supported them by advocating for their needs within the court system. According to the CASA mission statement, CASA's intent is to ``speak up for the best interests of children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect. We recruit, train, and supervise community volunteers who provide a voice in court to assure each child a safe, permanent, and nurturing home.''

CASA of Morris County began in 1987 by the National Council of Jewish Women and later merged with the Sussex County chapter in 1996. In the last fiscal year the CASA of Morris and Sussex Counties served 354 children helping 108 reach permanency, which includes reunification with birth parents, adoption, kinship legal adoption, or independent living. Out of the 15 CASA chapters in New Jersey, the Morris and Sussex Counties chapter serves the largest percentage of children in out-of-home placement.

For 25 years, the CASA of Morris and Sussex Counties has kept children from falling through the cracks of the court system and helped them gain a stable family structure. In the past year, CASA lists among their accomplishments helping four siblings reunite with their parents in a safe environment with two of the siblings attending summer camp on scholarships, a four-year-old child who spent the first three years of her life in five different foster homes was able to be adopted into a loving family, and an abandoned 16-year-old was able to find a part- time job, educational assistance, and a path to independent living.

CASA of Morris and Sussex County's is proud that their 25 years of work has always focused on the tenet of ``every child can thrive in the safe embrace of a loving family.'' CASA has been able to provide the opportunity for abused and neglected children of Northern New Jersey to overcome their circumstance and mature into successful and caring adults.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in recognizing Court Appointed Special Advocates of Morris and Sussex Counties on their 25th anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the West Essex First Aid Squad, located in the Township of West Caldwell, Essex County, New Jersey as they celebrate their 75th anniversary.

The West Essex First Aid Squad formed in November of 1937, when a group of local citizens joined together to solve the problem of obtaining a prompt and efficient ``First Aid and Ambulance'' service to meet the needs of the sick and injured. Two months later, the group had completed training, and on January 7, 1938 the West Essex First Aid Squad answered its first call for help.

During its early years, from 1937 to 1941, the Squad answered 543 calls for assistance and contributed 2,402 man-hours answering those calls, additional hours were logged for training and practicing. During its second 5 years from 1942 to 1947, the number of calls more than tripled to 1,759.

The West Essex First Aid Squad now includes 85 volunteer members who serve Caldwell, West Caldwell, North Caldwell, Essex Fells, and Fairfield. The Squad's four ambulances and one rescue truck provide 24- hour emergency medical service to the community, as well as rescue with the Jaws of Life, all at no cost to the public they serve. In 2007 and 2008, the Squad received more than 2,500 calls each year.

Men and women of the West Essex First Aid Squad have demonstrated a marked commitment to the public by dedicating their time and resources to providing lifesaving services to the community. The Squad is always available to provide aid to local fire departments. The Squad also provides support during hazardous material incidents, structure fires, and natural disasters.

The West Essex First Aid Squad has exhibited dedication to serving the community by answering a full spectrum of calls for help, ranging from complaints of chest pain or difficulty breathing, to motor vehicle collisions. The volunteers further serve the community by standing by at community events such as football games, parades, concerts, and 4th of July fireworks. Members have not only volunteered their time to the Squad and to public events, but have also sponsored blood drives and donated their time and talents in offering first aid and CPR instruction to members of the community.

The West Essex First Aid Squad is truly a selfless group of individuals, devoted to providing basic life support services, emergency medical services, and heavy rescue to the public. Through their steadfast dedication to addressing the needs of area families and businesses, the West Essex First Aid Squad has proved itself to be a pillar of our community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the West Essex First Aid Squad as they celebrate their Seventy-fifth Anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, once again, I come to the floor to recognize the great success of strong local schools working with dedicated parents and teachers. I rise today to congratulate and honor a number of outstanding high school artists from the 11th Congressional District of New Jersey. Each of these talented students participated in the 2012 Congressional Arts Competition, ``An Artistic Discovery.'' Their works of art are exceptional!

Sixty young men and women participated. That is a wonderful response, and I would very much like to build on that participation for future competitions.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the three winners of our art competition. First place was awarded to Jessica Menchon from Mt. Olive High School for her oil on canvas entitled, ``History of Waterloo Village.'' Second place was awarded to Vicki Liu from Ridge High School for her acrylic entitled, ``Shameless.'' Third place was awarded to Rachel Elias from Montville High School for her charcoal and chalk pastel entitled, ``Looking Up.''

Honorable Mentions were awarded to: Marlaina Lutz from Roxbury High School for her photograph entitled, ``Swallow and Hummingbird'' and Nicolas McMillen from Parsippany Christian School for his photograph entitled, ``Brotherly Tree.''

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize each artist for their participation by indicating their high school, their name and the title of their contest entries for the official Record.

Boonton High School; Emily DiLaura ``Spring Labor.''

Franchesca LeBrun ``Portrait (Self);'' Sara Leslie ``When I Was a Little Girl;'' Sabrina Noel ``My Dog Trixie.''

Chatham High School; Zachary Blake ``Job Interview;'' Laura Cheong ``Boxful;'' Megan Gesell ``Autumn Change;'' Natalie Smith ``Untitled.''

Hopatcong High School; Katelyn Downey ``Capitol Building;'' Katlyn Garcia ``The North Tower;'' Gregory P. Smyth III ``Sussex Swans.''

Livingston High School; Sharon Aliev ``Gossip Girls;'' Andrea Cao ``Another Plague;'' Laura Lin ``Breath;'' Christina Torrens ``Fracture.''

Madison High School; Teri Minogue ``Reflection;'' Kyle T. Smith ``Falling Snow.''

Millburn High School; Alexandra Bass ``Section of a Collection;'' Zoe Denenberg ``Liberty.''

Millburn High School; Emily Draper ``Roses.''

Montville High School; Alexa D'Arienzo ``Goddess in Despair;'' Nicolette Russo ``Dripping;'' Jesse Stathis ``Apart of Me.''

Morris Catholic High School; Austin Dimore ``Behind the Mask;'' Lucas Milone ``Swamp Tree;'' Darius Osario ``Koi Pond;'' Diamante Soto ``The Dancer.''

Morris Knolls High School; Stefanie Fischer ``Watchtower;'' Emily Kovach ``Venice;'' Kathleen McGlynn ``America.'' Abigail Schaefer ``King of Spades.''

Mt. Olive High School; Emily Coughlah ``Stasis;'' Michael DiCola ``Hidden Beneath;'' Lori Tatum ``Autumn Glow.''

Parsippany Christian School; Troy Costa ``Reunion;'' Elisee Jean- Pierre ``The Lonely Bench;'' Daniel McMillen ``Root Life.''

Parsippany High School; Ashley Del Rio ``Untitled.''

Pequannock High School; Emily Grimaldi ``Great Apple Massacre;'' Thomas Kozell ``Lovely Agony;'' James Quinn ``Cosmos Hair;'' Joaquin Roca ``Bloody Mary.''

Pope John XXIII High School; Kelly King ``Government.''

Ridge High School; Clair Chin ``In This Day and Age;'' Laura Cursi ``Freedom's Reflection;'' Sophie Harris ``Modern World.''

Roxbury High School; Brianna Krop ``My 3rd Period Daydream;'' Cara Resiak ``One Fish, Two Fish, Me Fish, You Fish;'' Elizabeth Synalovski ``Madison.''

Sparta High School; Melissa Hespelt ``Four Eyed.''

Watchung Hills Regional High School; Steve Dodge ``Windows;'' Jesse Kukucka ``Creep;'' Carly Vautin ``Plant;'' Briarma Wallisch ``Unforgotten.''

Each year the winner of the competition has their art work displayed with other winners from across the country in a special corridor here at the U.S. Capitol. Thousands of our fellow Americans walk through the exhibition and are reminded of the vast talents of our young men and women. Indeed, all of these young artists are winners, and we should be proud of their achievements so early in life.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating these talented young people from New Jersey's 11th Congressional District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Riverdale Women's Club, located in the Borough of Riverdale, Morris County, New Jersey as they celebrate their 60th Anniversary.

The Riverdale Women's Club was founded in 1952 as a community service and social organization to provide community improvements, cultural enrichment and educational opportunities to the residents of Riverdale and surrounding municipalities.

The Riverdale Women's Club has made many significant contributions to their community throughout their long history.

Utilizing the many talents of group members, the Club crafts lap robes and afghans for local nursing homes and hospitals, as well as newborn baby hats for area maternity departments. In addition, the members of the Club sew sheets for local school nurses and make teddy bears to be used by local Police, Fire and Rescue for trauma victims.

During holiday seasons the Club collects food and provides food baskets to Morris County's neediest as well as making candy and cookies for local nursing homes. Throughout the year the members of the Club collect clothing and sanitary items to give to New Jersey's veterans' homes.

Every year the Women's Club fulfills their longstanding tradition of encouraging educational opportunities through the Marie S. Hagberg Scholarship, Adele Wasek Art Award and Helen Spengler Continuing Education Scholarships given to deserving students. They also sponsor Annual Academic Essay and Art Award Competitions.

In addition, the Club has participated in the establishment of the Riverdale Senior Citizen's Club, the Friends of Riverdale Library and the Local 4 H Club. They were also instrumental in the foundation of the Children's Wellness Clinic and a, number of additional health clinics in Riverdale.

Through their steadfast dedication to addressing the educational and social needs of the community while providing a gathering place for women, the Riverdale Women's Club has proved itself to be a pillar of the Borough of Riverdale. We are proud to have such a dedicated group here in Morris County.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Riverdale Women's Club as they celebrate their Sixtieth Anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Loantaka Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the Revolution, organized in the Borough of Madison, Morris County, New Jersey and the Parsippanong Chapters of the National Society Daughters of the Revolution, organized in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, Morris County, New Jersey as they celebrate their 85th and 100th anniversary respectively.

The Loantaka-Parsippanong Chapter resulted from the merger of the Parsippanong and Loantaka DAR chapters in 1992. The Parsippanong Chapter was organized on October 14, 1912 with Ruth E. Tichenor Fairchild as Organizing Regent and the Loantaka Chapter was organized in 1927 with Jane Wilson Graham Ridley as Organizing Regent. Today, members continue to promote the awareness of our rich history.

Throughout their history, both the Loantaka and Parsippanong Chapters have demonstrated a marked commitment to the Morris area. In the past, the Loantaka Chapter has supported efforts to make Jockey Hollow a national historical park and participated in the celebration of the National Parks bicentennial in 1972.

Similarly, the Parsippanong Chapter has demonstrated its commitment by sponsoring Memorial Day Services at the Parsippany Presbyterian Church Cemetery where 84 Revolutionary War soldiers are buried.

The Loantaka-Parsippanong Chapter prides itself on working to preserve buildings and landmarks that are of historical significance, and on supporting the National Society's scholarships, approved schools, and Native American endeavors.

The Daughters of the Revolution persistently furthers its mission of education as well as the preservation of history by sponsoring activities such as Good Citizens, a program which recognizes and awards scholarships to high school seniors exemplifying the ideals of good citizenship, and by joining with other patriotic, heritage, and historical organizations in providing educational opportunities to local citizens and schoolchildren.

The Loantaka and Parsippanong chapters have also enriched the community by providing philanthropic services such as supporting schools for children with special needs, providing service to patients in Veterans' Hospitals, and offering financial aid for American Indian students. Through their steadfast dedication to addressing the educational and social needs of the community while preserving the culture and history of the Morris area, the Loantaka-Parsippanong chapter has proved itself to be a pillar of our community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Loantaka and Parsippanong Chapters of the National Society Daughters of the Revolution as they celebrate their 85th and 100th anniversaries.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church, located in the Township of Randolph, Morris County, New Jersey as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary.

Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church came together with approximately 50 families and their first priest, Fr. Konstantine Tsigas, for their First Divine Liturgy on December 23, 1962 in Dover, New Jersey. The ground breaking ceremony for a new church facility in Randolph, New Jersey took place on December 16, 1973. The Church has thrived throughout its many decades, growing from 50 families to over 500 and will continue to thrive for the many years to come.

Saint Andrew prides itself on not only preserving the Greek Orthodox faith and heritage for future generations but also on sharing its culture and faith with the Morris County community.

St. Andrew's incorporates individuals of varying interests and backgrounds through their comprehensive selection of community activities and programs. The Church has enriched the community by offering regular religious services, religious education, and weekly classes on the Greek Language and Hellenic culture. Members of their community can participate in the Church's Byzantine Choir, join one of the many Greek folk dancing groups, attend youth or adult Greek language classes, or join one of several service groups. By offering an array of cultural programs and activities, St. Andrew has succeeded in keeping the Greek culture and language a part of the holistic Orthodox experience.

The Church also provides philanthropic services to the community through volunteer work and services such as providing Life Line Screening, which preemptively scans for risk factors for Stroke, Vascular Disease, and Osteoporosis. St. Andrew's Daughters of Penelope organization award numerous college scholarships to graduating high school seniors in the area while the Philoptochos Society strives both to promote the Greek Orthodox tradition and to assist those in need through fundraisers.

Through their steadfast dedication to addressing the educational and social needs of the community while preserving the cultural and religious diversity of the Morris area, Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church has proved itself to be a pillar of our community.

The Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church is truly a place where anyone is welcome to find God and find a community of caring, friendly faces. We are proud to have them here in Morris County.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church as they celebrate their Fiftieth Anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in commemorating the 191st anniversary of Greek independence. It is an honor to recognize a nation whose rich and vibrant history not only laid the foundation for democracy, but whose immigrants and descendants have enriched the cultural landscape of our Nation.

The warm friendship that America shares with Greece is rooted in the indelible mark of democracy and self-determination that Hellenic culture has left on our country. We note that the ancient Greeks developed the concept of democracy, in which the supreme power to govern was vested in the people. Our Founding Fathers of the United States, many of whom read Greek political philosophy in the original Greek, drew heavily on the political experience and philosophy of ancient Greece in forming our representative democracy.

And just as our founding fathers were guided by these principles in their fight for independence from the British Crown, so too were the founders of modern-day Greece, who declared their independence from the Ottoman Empire on March 25th, 191 years ago.

Since the birth of both Nations, we have shared the desire to uphold the values of freedom, equality, and justice championed by the Ancient Greeks. We have joined together to promote peace and stability in the world. Indeed, Greece is our ally and our partner, having supported the United States in every major international conflict throughout the 20th century. Though rooted in ancient ideals, our strong allegiance continues today through a shared belief that freedom and democracy are the building blocks of peace.

At home, we recognize the contributions of Greeks in the areas in culture, literature and architecture.

I trust that the bonds between our two Nations will remain strong for years to come.

I ask my colleagues to join me in extending warm congratulations and best wishes to the people of Greece as they celebrate the 191st anniversary of their independence.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Police Unity Tour and its riders as they mark their Fifteenth Anniversary.

In May of 1997, the Police Unity Tour was organized to raise awareness of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty and to honor their sacrifices. The Tour, the inspiration of Florham Park, New Jersey Police Officer Patrick P. Montuore, currently Florham Park Police Chief, has grown significantly since its first year. New chapters have formed in many states, including New York, Florida, Delaware and California.

During National Police Week, participants in the Police Unity Tour travel 300 miles by bicycle from New Jersey to the National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial in Washington DC. The tour culminates in a candlelight vigil held in Washington DC at the Memorial where the names of newly added officers are read aloud and officially dedicated on the monument. This ceremony reminds the participants that their important work is never done.

To honor fallen officers who have fallen in the line of duty, the ride helps raise funds for the National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial Fund. Since 1997, the Police Unity Tour has raised $10 million for the Fund, going towards the task of adding officers' names to the Memorial's Hall of Remembrance and providing for renovations to the facility.

From 18 participants raising $18,000 for the Fund in its first year, the Police Unity Tour has grown to over 1,200 riders who raised $1.325 million in 2011 alone. Inspired by its motto, ``We Ride for Those Who Died'', participants come from over 40 states as well as a number of countries such as Australia, Israel and India. However different the backgrounds of these officers may be, they all share in the common purpose of honoring and remembering their fellow fallen officers.

The National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial contains the names of 19,000 officers who have sacrificed their lives to keep our communities safe and the contributions of the Police Unity Tour have helped preserve their memory. In 2006, The Police Unity Tour pledged to raise $5 million to restore the Memorial and in 2009 the restoration was completed, ensuring that the names and legacies of these officers will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Police Unity Tour and the law enforcement officers who participate in it, as they mark 15 years of devotion to the law enforcement community.

I thank the gentlewoman for yielding.

Don Payne and I have been friends for over 35 years. We served together in county government as freeholders in New Jersey from our respective counties, Morris and Essex Counties, before he preceded me to Congress.

During his service in this House, he worked long and hard on issues that literally cried out for attention.

At home we all admired his steadfast commitment to ensuring that our Nation's children had the best quality education possible.

Abroad he focused on global public health issues like childhood survival and human rights on the continent of Africa and elsewhere. Don Payne took up the cause for suffering people around the world and gave voice to their plight even at great personal risk.

Mr. Speaker, Don Payne loved Congress, he loved public service, he loved New Jersey, and he loved his hometown of Newark.

I was proud to work with him to revitalize the Passaic River in Newark, that waterfront that for many years had remained inaccessible to the public.

Don will be sorely missed, especially for his dedicated service to his constituents over many decades. I'll never forget his valuable service and his enduring friendship. We've lost a great principled man who lived a life from which we could all learn something.

May the tributes and prayers of so many of his colleagues here this afternoon today be a source of strength to his family.

Thank you.

Mr. Speaker, every year, more high school seniors from the 11th Congressional District trade in varsity jackets for navy pea coats, Air Force flight suits, and Army brass buckles than most other districts in the country. But this is nothing new--our area has repeatedly sent an above average portion of its sons and daughters to the nation's military academies for decades.

This fact should not come as a surprise. The educational excellence of area schools is well known and has long been a magnet for families looking for the best environment in which to raise their children. Our graduates are skilled not only in mathematics, science, and social studies, but also have solid backgrounds in sports, debate teams, and other extracurricular activities. This diverse upbringing makes military academy recruiters sit up and take note--indeed, many recruiters know our towns and schools by name.

Since the 1830's, Members of Congress have enjoyed meeting, talking with, and nominating these superb young people to our military academies. But how did this process evolve? In 1843, when West Point was the sole academy, Congress ratified the nominating process and became directly involved in the makeup of our military's leadership. This was not an act of an imperial Congress bent on controlling every aspect of Government. Rather, the procedure still used today was, and is, a further check and balance in our democracy. It was originally designed to weaken and divide political coloration in the officer corps, provide geographical balance to our armed services, and to make the officer corps more resilient to unfettered nepotism and handicapped European armies.

In 1854, Representative Gerritt Smith of New York added a new component to the academy nomination process--the academy review board. This was the first time a Member of Congress appointed prominent citizens from his district to screen applicants and assist with the serious duty of nominating candidates for academy admission. Today, I am honored to continue this wise tradition in my service to the 11th Congressional District.

The Academy Review Board is composed of six local citizens who have shown exemplary service to New Jersey, to their communities, and to the continued excellence of education in our area. Many are veterans. Though from diverse backgrounds and professions, they all share a common dedication that the best qualified and motivated graduates attend our academies. And, as true for most volunteer panels, their service goes largely unnoticed.

I would like to take a moment to recognize these men and women and thank them publicly for participating in this important panel. Being on the board requires hard work and an objective mind. Members have the responsibility of interviewing upwards of 50 outstanding high school seniors every year in the academy review process.

The nomination process follows a general timetable. High school seniors mail personal information directly to the Military Academy, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy once they become interested in attending. Information includes academic achievement, college entry test scores, and other activities. At this time, they also inform my office of their desire to be nominated.

The academies then assess the applicants, rank them based on the data supplied, and return files to my office with their notations. In late November, our Academy Review Board interviews all of the applicants over the course of 2 days. They assess a student's qualifications and analyze character, desire to serve, and other talents that may be hidden on paper.

This year the board interviewed over 50 applicants. Nominations included 9 to the Naval Academy, 10 to the Military Academy, 5 to the Merchant Marine Academy and 8 to the Air Force Academy--the Coast Guard Academy does not use the Congressional nomination process. The recommendations are then forwarded to the academies by January 31, where recruiters reviewed files and notified applicants and my office of their final decision on admission.

As these highly motivated and talented young men and women go through the academy nominating process, never let us forget the sacrifice they are preparing to make: to defend our country and protect our citizens. This holds especially true at a time when our nation is fighting the war against terrorism. Whether it is in Afghanistan or other hot spots around the world, no doubt we are constantly reminded that wars are fought by the young. And, while our military missions are both important and dangerous, it is reassuring to know that we continue to put America's best and brightest in command.

Academy Nominees for 2012, 11th District Congressional District

Air Force Academy

Page Femia, Kinnelon, Villa Walsh Academy

Christian Longhi, Succasunna, Seton Hall Prep

Mathieu Gaydos, Randolph, Randolph H.S.

Brian Moscioni, Mendham, Gill St. Bernard's School

Ryan Swift, Whippany, Morristown H.S.

Brandon Sharp, Whippany, Seton Hall Prep

Merchant Marine Academy

Alexander Rodgers, Lake Hopatcong, Jefferson H.S.

Bansi Patel, Livingston, Livingston H.S.

Military Academy

Gregory Horne, Denville, Morris Knolls H.S.

Michael Lami, Madison, Madison H.S./ MAPS

Amos Lee, Bridgewater-Raritan, Bridgewater-Raritan H.S.

Timothy Lynch, Mendham, Pope John XIII H.S.

Jared Love, Florham Park, Episcopal H.S./MAPS

James Morsch, Morristown, West Morris Mendham H.S.

Thomas Rapp, Mendham, West Morris Mendham H.S.

Jonathan Richards, Mountain Lakes, Mountain Lakes H.S.

Ryan Richards, Basking Ridge, Ridge H.S.

Joshua Thomlinson, Flanders, Pope John XIII H.S.

Naval Academy

Gianluca Borrelli, Dover, Dover H.S.

James Burke III, Chatham, Chatham H.S.

Roger Castle, Bridgewater. Bridgewater-Raritan H.S.

Matthew Dilonno, Mountain Lakes, Mountain Lakes H.S.

Troy Dundas, Sparta, Norwich University/ Blair Academy

Shane Gregoire, Kinnelon, Kinnelon H.S.

Aaron Hanko, Montville, Trinity Christian School

Chad Heal, Hackettstown, Delbarton School

Caitlyn Hughes, Randolph, Randolph HS/Stevens Institute

Gregory Keiser, East Hanover, Delbarton School

Joshua King, Short Hills, Pingry School

Kevin Lenahan, Flanders, Pope John XIII H.S.

Anthony Malatesta, Chatham, Chatham H.S.

Thomas Mahala, Far Hills, Seton Hall Prep/Seton Hall

University

Keegan McCoy, Basking Ridge, Ridge H.S.

James McManus, Mendham, West Morris Mendham H.S.

Thomas Morreale, Short Hills, Millburn H.S.

Steven Reidel, Boonton, Mountain Lakes H.S.

Conrad Womelsdorf, Caldwell, James Caldwell H.S.

Jinghong Yuan, Parsippany, Parsippany H.S.

I want to thank the chairman for his support and leadership as we work through the appropriations process.

Mr. Speaker, this morning I am pleased to support this appropriations bill that keeps our government open for business but that also substantially reduces Federal spending in almost every Department.

A special thanks to my ranking member and good friend, Pete Visclosky, for his hard work, his knowledge of our energy and water bill, and his passionate support for so many priorities.

Our portion of the bill has an important national security component so that we increase funding for the safety and the reliability of our nuclear deterrent, as well as for a new generation of naval reactors.

While funding for the Department of Energy is below the President's request, we continue to ensure that our Nation has a diversity of energy supply, that nuclear energy will be a critical part of that future, and that important research and development will continue at our remarkable national laboratories. Additionally, our bill provides funds for the Army Corps of Engineers to protect public safety, to keep America open for business, and to meet emergencies.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to support a bill that ensures our national security, our safety, and our economic security with fewer taxpayer dollars.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Jewish Federation of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties located in Bridgewater Township, Somerset County, New Jersey, on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

For half a century, the Federation has helped raise funds to coordinate services and help support agencies that touch the lives of Jews in Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties. Through numerous programs, they have not only assisted in funding but have also provided a place for Jews to come together both in their faith and in the spirit of community service. The Federation is the umbrella organization of the area's Jewish community, bringing together agencies, organizations, and communities to support and fulfill the needs of the Jewish people.

The Federation targets those in their twenties through forties with their Young Leadership Division (YLD) that aims to strengthen the Jewish community by focusing on three principles: ``Live Jewishly. Live Socially. Live Generously.'' YLD encourages involvement in the Jewish community and provides members with opportunities to not only socialize within their faith but to join together to help others.

The Women's Philanthropy Division is a program that educates and engages women to be active in their religious community. These women work to support those in need locally, in Israel, and around the world through numerous events and fundraisers.

In an effort to aid local businesses, the Federation holds several events throughout the year for the business community to build valuable, lasting relationships. With the understanding that the success of a business is dependent on its visibility and connections within a community, the Federation gives them the boost they need to establish their credibility.

In addition to the programs the Federation offers, it also hosts mission trips overseas to Israel and other countries in an effort to show the history, status and future of Jewish People.

The Federation is a resource of information for anything from educational organizations to social services. No matter the needs or the issues, the Jewish Federation of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties, continues to work to address them.

Mr. Speaker, I task you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Jewish Federation of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties on 50 years of dedicated service.